This just in: The most annoying part of your daily health regimen may actually not bring you the benefits dentists have long said it does. According to a recent investigation conducted by the Associated Press, there is little to no evidence that daily flossing prevents cavities, gum disease, and more.

For over 30 years, the federal government's Dietary Guidelines for Americans have recommended flossing daily, a guideline that is required to be reexamined every five years based on scientific evidence. This year, flossing disappeared from the guidelines. The AP followed up, and as was written in their investigation, "the government acknowledged the effectiveness of flossing had never been researched, as required."

AP's own research into this evidence suggested that it is outdated or weak, and that many of the American Dental Association and American Academy of Periodontology's studies were insufficient. Studies examined by the AP only included a few people, they included outdated methods, or they didn't last for very long. Most only found that flossing helps prevent plaque and removes other unwanted material from between the teeth. When there was a correlation, the studies used descriptors like "inconsistent/weak evidence" or "very unreliable" and "lack of efficacy." However, AAP President Wayne Aldredge noted to the AP that many Americans may also be flossing incorrectly, contributing to the lack of visible results of their labor.

While the AP's investigation — which you can read in full here — casts doubt on the benefits of flossing, we do know that brushing is still super important for oral health. Replacing your toothbrush every few months, brushing twice a day for at least two minutes, and proper brushing technique are crucial to preventing plaque buildup and diseases.

Need a refresher on proper brushing technique? Check out this video from the ADA: